Emergency Clinics and other musings

I know, it's been a while since I've posted anything......

Recently Channel 5 News did a story on Dr. Lisa Hart's Emergency Pet Clinic. You
can read the print article here.

I have read a lot of negative comments on Craigs List regarding Dr. Hart. I don't know how true they are, but the comments did make me do some thinking.

Dr. Hart has helped 2 of my pets with medical issues on an emergency basis. Both survived and are doing well.

What I did think about is how an expose can incite panic and cast a dark shadow over an entire profession.

Most veterinarians (and technicians) are not working to just make a buck. They are sincerely interested in your animals well being and fostering the human-animal bond.

The news article is correct in that vets (and technicians) should maintain licensure, attend continuing education classes and keep animals in their care safe.

So, how do you know who to trust? Ask questions. Look at the office. Are the waiting area and exam rooms clean and free of odor? Are the support staff (receptionists, assistants and technicians) happy? Is your pet comfortable at the office? Does your pet come back to you clean after staying the day at the vet's?

The American Animal Hospital Association is an accrediting company that ensures its members adhere to certain basic values and practices in the Veterinary profession. This can be a good starting point, though keep in mind that many good vets are not members of this company.

I will not tell you who is a good vet and who to avoid. I do want you to be an educated consumer though. Use the same criteria you used to chooose your family doctor and you wil be on the right track.